Pros of a Supercharger
Despite being considered a grandpa in comparison to turbochargers, superchargers were only invented a few years before the turbocharger. Some advantages of a supercharger include:
No Lag
A supercharger has no lag and consistent power delivery. Power delivery is instantaneous because the supercharger is driven by the engine’s crankshaft.
Increased Horsepower
Adding a supercharger is a quick way to boost power to any engine.
Low RPM Boost
Superchargers provide good power at a low RPM in comparison to a turbocharger.
Low Price
Superchargers are a cost effective way of increasing horsepower.
Cons of a Supercharger
Less Efficient
Superchargers require engine power and are therefore less efficient than turbos. Simply put, superchargers deplete engine power, simply to produce more engine power.
Lacks Reliability
All forced induction systems (including turbos) require the engine internals to be exposed to higher temps and pressures which may negatively impact the life of the engine.
Future of the Supercharger
As was mentioned earlier, turbochargers are on the rise at the expense of the supercharger. Even to the surprise of some industry experts, turbochargers are increasing at a dramatically fast rate and are leaving supercharger production in the dust. This is because a turbocharged engine offers a "no compromise" solution for automakers that need to meet increasingly strict fuel economy and emission standards, while meeting customer demand for better-performing vehicles. Manufacturers are also combining turbochargers with direct fuel injection technology to allow them to offer smaller gasoline engines, which saves fuel without sacrificing power. The final added benefit that many green consumers love is that turbochargers help reduce harmful exhaust emissions and help improve fuel efficiency.
